State fair monorail riding into history



By Tim Henley
The Oklahoman

The monorail at State Fair Park will come down next month after 41 years to make room for renovations, state fair officials said Friday.

The removal is part of the $55 million renovation to the park and its horse barns.

"It was a difficult decision because it's been a part of the annual state fair history, but it's the right thing to do for our long-term plan," said Tim O'Toole, State Fair Park general manager.

The renovations are intended to keep Oklahoma City's show horse business from leaving. The industry brings an estimated $180 million a year to the local economy.

The monorail was built in 1964, and O'Toole said usage has decreased. The operation also is difficult to properly maintain.

"It's over 40 years old, but in its day, it was state-of-the-art," O'Toole said.

The monorail trains will be auctioned June 4.

Officials said an exhibit will recognize the monorail's historic role. O'Toole said he wants to preserve parts of the train and track.